Leading Twin Cities photographer Ann Marsden was diagnosed with cervical cancer in July 2010. She has undergone several intensive treatment regimens, including another round of chemotherapy that began in early December.

She cannot have visitors, which friends describe as a trial for this people person.

So, on Monday evening, more than two dozen neighbors and members of the Twin Cities performing arts community came together outside her home in St Paul to show their love. Bearing candles and sweet spirits, they sang carols to Marsden, who came out and watched, beaming.

The evening was organized by Mary Petrie, a neighbor and women's studies professor, and Twin Cities stage star Stacia Rice.

“Like most people, we felt helpless in the face of illness,” said Petrie. “And we wanted to give her some energy.”